Activities

1. Prepare word processing data diskettes with symbol keys and with incorrect sentences for students to correct. Sample items are included with this lesson.

2. Prepare or obtain paper keyboards and a large poster showing symbol keys.

Activities:

1. Direct the students' attention to a large poster showing the symbol keys. Touch a special key and tell the students the name of each symbol. Have students repeat the names.

2. Review the use of the symbols. Give examples of when the symbols would be used.

2. Using a computer and large screen monitor or projection panel with the entire class or a typical computer station with small groups of students, demonstrate keying the symbols by holding down one of the shift keys, using index fingers only.

3. At the computer, have students practice using symbol keys (with index fingers only). Monitor students and model correct procedures as necessary.

4. Using the prepared data diskettes, have students key in the material with symbol keys as shown on the word processing data diskettes. (Activity 1)

5. Given several incorrect sentences on the data diskettes, have students key each sentence correctly by providing a capital letter for the first word of each sentence. (Activity 2)

6. Given sentences on the data diskettes, have students key the sentences using the Caps Lock key. (Activity 3)

Follow-Up: Play Zap It!

1. Post large, paper keyboards around room.

2. Divide the class into several teams and have students line up in front of the keyboards.

3. Provide each student a crayon or marker.

4. Name/describe a special key, then say "go" so students can "zap it."

5. Have the first student in each line run to the paper keyboard and "zap" the special key by marking a "Z" on it. The student runs to the end of the line. Repeat until all students have had a turn.

6. At the end of the game, all students are declared "winners" and given a paper keyboard to take home to practice locating letters, numbers, and special keys.

Measure

Using a picture of a computer keyboard, have students color special keys and symbol keys using specific colors as the teacher gives instructions.